Larry Junstrom

Larry Junstrom (1949-2023) was an American musician best known as the bassist for the Southern rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd and later for the band .38 Special. He played a crucial role in shaping the sound of Southern rock, a genre that blends rock, blues, and country influences. Junstrom joined Lynyrd Skynyrd in the early 1970s, contributing to their iconic albums such as "Pronounced Leh-nerd Skin-nerd" (1973) and "Second Helping" (1974), which featured hits like "Sweet Home Alabama" and "Free Bird." His driving bass lines helped define the band’s powerful sound. In 1976, after the tragic plane crash that claimed the lives of several band members, Junstrom went on to co-found .38 Special with guitarist Don Barnes. The band achieved significant commercial success in the 1980s with hits like "Hold On Loosely" and "Caught Up in You," blending rock with elements of pop and arena rock. Junstrom's contributions to both bands have left a lasting impact on the Southern rock genre, influencing countless musicians and helping to popularize the sound across the United States. His legacy is marked by his energetic performances and the enduring popularity of the music he helped create.